Do I have sleeping disorders????

Question

I can never fall asleep before 4 AM and wake up around 1 PM. I just can't fall asleep. I went to the doctor a while ago and they told me that I was depressed or had bad sleeping habits, and I am far from depressed. They suggested going to bed at 12 PM every night and waking up at 8 AM, but I could never stick to that on weekends. I have tried melatonin which does not even effect me. I am on the computer a lot and light reduces melatonin production which makes you feel tired, but I have to be on the computer I am a CS major. Excedrin PM also has not done anything for me, I have taken 3 of them at once and still never feel tired. I want to be normal, wake up early have a productive day, but instead I waste my days sleeping and waste my nights staying awake. The only time i can sleep is if i am high or drunk which i don't like doing during the week because i feel like **** the next day.....what are good ways to fall asleep? is something seriously wrong with me?I am 20/m in college. Thanks

Answer 1

It is totally possible that there is nothing wrong with you...that you are a natural nightowl or your body is "trained" (by you) to not sleep before 4 am. The other option is insomia. Either way, the same strategies will work IF you follow through with them daily. Remember, the key is to be consistent in your follow through..this means even on weekends until your body is retrained.

Strategies for coping with insomnia:
avoid or limit caffeine, nicotine, and alcohol, especially in the evening.
make sure none of your medications are affecting your sleep
go to bed and get up at the same time EVERY day
save the bed for sleeping and sex only...no tv
exercise daily at least 4 hours before bedtime
limit bedtime to 8 hours
do not nap
relax in the evenings...don't do anything stimulating
eat meals at regular times
try to avoid a bedtime snack
when in bed, concentrate on relaxing
get lots of sunshine
keep your bedroom quiet, dark, and cool
try a sleep mask
avoid beverages at night
try using white noise

It might help to try and keep a sleep diary so that you can document your sleep issues. Good luck!